Munson's
Outpatient Physical Therapy provides many services geared
toward the particular health problems of women. The staff has
developed expertise in several areas including:
A referral from a physician is required for all
physical therapy services.
Breast Cancer
Physical Therapy is available anytime after breast cancer surgery.
Early intervention (within the first few weeks or months after
surgery) can help improve posture, improve shoulder motion, decrease
feelings of tightness, and improve knowledge of skin care to minimize
the risk of lymphedema.
Later intervention can help improve flexibility
of the shoulder girdle and chest wall, can improve strength, and
can help patients return to their normal activities in a safe,
informed manner.
Lymphedema therapy helps decrease swelling that
may occur in the arm or chest following breast cancer surgery
or radiation. Treatment is individualized, based on the amount
of swelling and the particular needs of each patient. Treatment
may include Complete Decongestive Physiotherapy (CPD). CPD incorporates
manual lymph drainage, compression bandaging, exercise, and instruction
in skin care. Patients are taught to manage swelling on their
own.
Osteoporosis
Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis requires a comprehensive
program. After an evaluation that includes posture, flexibility,
strength, balance and walking pattern, a program is specifically
designed to meet each woman's needs. This may include:
Weight bearing and restrictive exercises
Instruction in proper posture and in safe ways
to move and perform daily activities
Education on risk factors for osteoporosis
Fall Prevention
Munson's Fall Prevention Program can help make a woman safe in
her home and community. The first step is an evaluation with a
physical therapist to check strength, balance, and walking pattern.
Based on the results of the evaluation, the therapist will be
able to determine if there is a risk for falling and if physical
therapy will help improve safety. Therapy may include various
balance, coordination, and strengthening exercises. A cane or
other walking aid may be suggested.
Incontinence
Incontinence is a common problem, but it is not normal. Many women
believe incontinence is a consequence of having children or part
of the aging process.
Usually incontinence develops gradually with leakage
that occurs with a cough, sneeze, laugh or exertion. Frequent
trips to the bathroom are made to avoid having a full bladder.
This may progress to having strong urges to go to the bathroom
that will end up in leakage if ignored.
Therapy includes evaluation of the pelvic muscles
and instruction in an exercise program to strengthen weak muscles.
Biofeedback may be used to assist in learning to tighten the correct
muscles. Improving the strength of the pelvic muscles can eliminate
or decrease the leakage of urine.
Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain is a condition frequently caused by increased tone
or tension in the muscles of the pelvic floor or abdominal area.
Other medical problems may be aggravated by this increased muscle
tension.
After a thorough medical evaluation to rule out
serious illness, a referral to a physical therapist may be appropriate.
The pelvic muscles, abdominal area, and lower back will be evaluated
and an individualized treatment program developed. Treatment may
include biofeedback and other techniques to help relax tight muscles,
improve posture, and flexibility.
Pre- and Postnatal
Exercise
During pregnancy, many changes occur within the body. Muscles
are stretched, and ligaments and joints loosed to accommodate
the growing fetus. The back and pelvis are placed under a lot
of stress. Exercise is important during the pre- and postnatal
period to prepare for childbirth and to help restore the body
to its prepregnancy state. Physical therapists can teach patients
exercises to help prevent or treat problems that occur as a result
of pregnancy such as back pain, weakened pelvic floor muscles,
and poor posture.
If you are a Munson Healthcare patient and have a compliment,
concern, or complaint, please contact one of our Patient
Liaisons.
